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Gift Experiences in London: A Little Inspiration

Hugh Thomas

We say some words about some gift experiences in London and yes, there really is something for everyone.

Bar Tastings

Bar tastings, or degustation as you may prefer to call them, certainly have their place in the capital. Locations to sample some of the world’s finest wines are particularly rife, while bars specialising in sherry, beer, whisky, tea, or gin cater not only for their respective aficionados, but soon-to-be converts as well. Take the Capital Hotel’s sommelier, for example, where Cesar consistently turns those previously repelled by whisky into budding lovers of the liquid.

Dining

Contrary to worldwide belief, England does have good food. The fact that a Frenchman – a Frenchman very good in the kitchen, as it happens – could deem London ‘the culinary capital of the world’ goes even further. The cook in question only holds 28 Michelin stars (more than anyone else, ever) and his own restaurant is among those that dish out stellar gift experiences. But let’s not neglect to mention his competitors. The Square has been going strong for 25 years, when in London you’ve done well if you’ve reached 7. Then there’s the not quite so ’relaxed’ Hakkasan which has sprouted so many branches across the globe it is basically its own empire.

Spas

Spas have existed in other parts of the world for thousands of years. While the same can’t quite be said for London, here lies a range of pamper palaces (from the traditional to the downright opulent) designed to relieve stress from working in the big smoke. Chief among them perhaps is the spa at Corinthia. If the Death Star had a spa, this would be it – it’s infinitely immaculate and futuristically sleek, and could well be a contender for the best spa on this world as well as off it.

Bespoke

Whether you think your gift recipient is after their perfect cocktail or a made to measure stationery line, options to customise a product are in no short supply. Take Floris’ fragrance, for example. Floris has been making people smell better since 1730, making it the oldest family perfumer in existence. Within its 284-year history, Floris has had the likes of Winston Churchill and Marilyn Monroe gracing its shop in Jermyn Street in Piccadilly. Not only that, the perfumers have held their first royal warrant since 1820 and their second since 1989.

And the rest…

You’d think you’d have your work cut out if whoever you’re buying for isn’t into bar tastings, dining, pampering, or tailor made products and experiences. The theatre remains in the #1 spot for those looking to be entertained, while romantic occasions such as a horse-drawn carriage rides or an afternoon at the cinema aren’t to be tutted at either.